More fountain pens!

So I got thinking about this again recently.. I'm not sure if I'll do anything very soon just because I'm a little tight on $$ right now and trying to cut back on non-essentials.

But I've got one lonely fountain pen that I got a little over 10 years ago. Just a basic Waterman, cartridge type.. It's a green marble finish and doesn't complement most of my wardrobe so most the time it just sits in its box and I use it for some journal writing etc, but I'd like to get one I can use all the time.

Does anyone know of a good pen in something like a chrome finish, with a fairly fine point? I'd like to stay under $50 if possible, for sure under $100. Doesn't have to be real fancy but a classy/elegant look would be nice.

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Originally Posted by bbshriver

So I got thinking about this again recently.. I'm not sure if I'll do anything very soon just because I'm a little tight on $$ right now and trying to cut back on non-essentials.

But I've got one lonely fountain pen that I got a little over 10 years ago. Just a basic Waterman, cartridge type.. It's a green marble finish and doesn't complement most of my wardrobe so most the time it just sits in its box and I use it for some journal writing etc, but I'd like to get one I can use all the time.

Does anyone know of a good pen in something like a chrome finish, with a fairly fine point? I'd like to stay under $50 if possible, for sure under $100. Doesn't have to be real fancy but a classy/elegant look would be nice.

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I've recently started a small collection of founain pens. I have a Schaeffer pen and pencil set (needs to be sent for refurbishing),a Parkette that is usuable (had it refurbished and just don't like the nib), a Parker 51 vacumatic demi model and a Hero 616 (Chinese version of the Parker 51).Of the 3 that I have at my disposale the Hero 616 and the Parker 51 gets the most use. For your money,I would go with the 616, they are inexpensive and are great pens to use.

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Originally Posted by bbshriver

Does anyone know of a good pen in something like a chrome finish, with a fairly fine point? I'd like to stay under $50 if possible, for sure under $100. Doesn't have to be real fancy but a classy/elegant look would be nice.

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Lamy AlStar (basically a metal Safari). They make one of the best non-custom extra fine points in the fountain pen world. you can get one for under forty bucks, plus another five for a convertor, spend the extra money on ink! The look is very clean and stylish, VERY german looking, sort of a bauhaus minimalist thing. has the single most useful clip design i've ever seen in my life.

http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.c...51_1999_381340
there are lots of colors, including varying shades of silver/gray

Thanks for the recommendation. I like this one as well
Lamy USA - Lamy Fountain Pens - Lamy Logo Fountain Pen

I like the polished SS.. I'm concerned that AL would feel kinda strange and light (though probably better than the plastic!). I've gotten kind of used to the weight of my chrome-plated brass fishers.

Anybody ordered from the "pen gallery"? Look like really good prices
PenGallery - Lamy Logo Pens

Also, where do you get the noodler "bullet proof" ink? And what is the blackest of their blacks?

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Originally Posted by bbshriver

Thanks for the recommendation. I like this one as well
Lamy USA - Lamy Fountain Pens - Lamy Logo Fountain Pen

I like the polished SS.. I'm concerned that AL would feel kinda strange and light (though probably better than the plastic!). I've gotten kind of used to the weight of my chrome-plated brass fishers.

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yes, the AlStar is very light, it actually weighs LESS than some of my plastic (bakelite, celluloid, etc) FPs, but has a very effective grip. since it's light, it's comfortable to write with for hours on end. I have some heavies, too, like an old Shaeffer Legacy, and a Duke Charlie Chaplin, but I don't like writing with them for a long time because of the weight, they are more like, "impress people" pens.

the most often-used pen I own is a Pilot/Namkiki Vanishing Point. basically a retractable fountain pen, it is the most convenient pen made by man. the only reason I use the AlStar more at work is that I am an engineer, and the AlStar is more abuse proof, and holds a lot more ink.

I have a Waterman that I have been using every day for a good 3 years now. I have some fountain pen kits that I plan on turning some wood barrels for some day.

I always wanted a pelican, but at $3500, it isn’t ever going to happen.

In that price bracket, I'd second the Parker 51. I'd buy one that has been restored. Richard Binder puts some nice pens up for sale on his site at the beginning of each month. In modern pens, I'd go with a Sailor Sapporo or 1911, or something from Pilot/Namiki such as the Vanishing point or Falcon. A Lamy 2000 in F nib would be a nice one too.

Can you guys tell me whether or not there are fountain ink brands out there where the ink dries virtually instantly? I have a small number of nicer roller balls and would like to branch out into fountain pens, but to date I have not been able to; reason:

I broke my right ring finger as a child and it was not set correctly; consequently I can not tuck it under when I write and have to keep it straight when I write. As a result, writing left to right, if I write quickly on more than one line, the index finger draws across my written word smearing it. I can get gel roller ball ink that dries right away and therefore don't have that problem. Ball point also tends to smear for me as well so I don't write with ball point.

Thanks.

Chris L

One brand that has been satisfactory is "Private Reserve." It doesn't clog pens that don't do so well with other inks and dries fairly quickly. Good solid colors too.

I like all the choices listed so far. My favorite has been a Namiki Falcon. Given your price criteria, the Lamy is the best value for the money.

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Originally Posted by Chris L

Can you guys tell me whether or not there are fountain ink brands out there where the ink dries virtually instantly? I have a small number of nicer roller balls and would like to branch out into fountain pens, but to date I have not been able to; reason:

I broke my right ring finger as a child and it was not set correctly; consequently I can not tuck it under when I write and have to keep it straight when I write. As a result, writing left to right, if I write quickly on more than one line, the index finger draws across my written word smearing it. I can get gel roller ball ink that dries right away and therefore don't have that problem. Ball point also tends to smear for me as well so I don't write with ball point.

Thanks.

Chris L

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Noodler's is my ink of choice. They make several varieties of specialty ink; non-feathering, quick drying, bulletproof, glow in the dark, freeze proof, etc.

Also, they have more color choices than any other 3 ink companies. A real example of American ingenuity and hard work, the whole company is basically run by one guy, who invents all the new formulas personally.

disclaimer: I don't work for Noodler's, nor am I affiliated with them at all. I just like their products a lot.

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Originally Posted by jockeys

Noodler's is my ink of choice. They make several varieties of specialty ink; non-feathering, quick drying, bulletproof, glow in the dark, freeze proof, etc.

Also, they have more color choices than any other 3 ink companies. A real example of American ingenuity and hard work, the whole company is basically run by one guy, who invents all the new formulas personally.

disclaimer: I don't work for Noodler's, nor am I affiliated with them at all. I just like their products a lot.

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I've seen the term "feathering" a lot on pen forums. What exactly does that mean? Thanks

Jordan

Think of the ink line beaded up on the surface of the paper, then as it soaks into the fibers, it spreads out and muddies the original line. It's not just ink pens, but some printers of ink jet type will do the same thing. Mostly folks grumble about recycled paper as the culprit, something to do with paper coatings and other secret stuff.

I like Noodler's inks too. It'd be a good choice.

Here's a long link found quickly, but there are pictures. http://images.google.com/imgres?imgu...%3Den%26sa%3DN

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Originally Posted by Chris L

Can you guys tell me whether or not there are fountain ink brands out there where the ink dries virtually instantly? I have a small number of nicer roller balls and would like to branch out into fountain pens, but to date I have not been able to; reason:

I broke my right ring finger as a child and it was not set correctly; consequently I can not tuck it under when I write and have to keep it straight when I write. As a result, writing left to right, if I write quickly on more than one line, the index finger draws across my written word smearing it. I can get gel roller ball ink that dries right away and therefore don't have that problem. Ball point also tends to smear for me as well so I don't write with ball point.

Thanks.

Chris L

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+1 on noodler's. I'd also get an F or EF nib and definitely avoid the bolder ones.

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Originally Posted by jnich67

I've seen the term "feathering" a lot on pen forums. What exactly does that mean? Thanks

Jordan

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Mike Blue has it. basically, it's when your ink bleeds. some people LIKE this phenomenon, mostly the types that use dip pens and write on parchment. most people hate it, because it makes otherwise neat handwriting look like crap.

ChrisL:
You might want to try a different grip on the pen. Rest the section on your bent middle finger, around the farthest joint. The thumb should press the left side of the pen towards your index finger, which is mostly on top of the pen. This is a poor description of a simple method. I switched to this grip from the 'ball point death grip'. Now my hands don't cramp up when I do a lot of writing.

Wayne

I really like the Pilot Vanishing Point (VP) right at $100 (ish) Japanese pens have about one level finer nibs. My medium nib is quite fine. Planning on getting another with a fine nib for writing in the borders of books...

Love Noodlers Inks I use Walnut very much.

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Originally Posted by bbqncigars

ChrisL:
You might want to try a different grip on the pen. Rest the section on your bent middle finger, around the farthest joint. The thumb should press the left side of the pen towards your index finger, which is mostly on top of the pen. This is a poor description of a simple method. I switched to this grip from the 'ball point death grip'. Now my hands don't cramp up when I do a lot of writing.

Wayne

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Here's how I hold a writing instrument. As you can see, my largely inflexible ring finger and my pinkie smear ink like the dickens. Wayne, I'm a visual guy, so if you can post a pic of an alternate way for me to write comfortably while keeping my ring finger extended, I'd appreciate a suggestion. Thanks for the info.

I'll check out Noodlers!

Chris L

Attachment 14531

I've been using a Parker 45 on/off for the last 5-6 years, and this thread has kind of made me wanting a nicer pen, what's the opinions on Waterman pens, the Expert II or the Carene to be exact?

Welll I got my Lamy Logo today... Love it!!!! works much better than my Waterman does (for me anyway), and the fine tip is nice!

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Originally Posted by bjorn

I've been using a Parker 45 on/off for the last 5-6 years, and this thread has kind of made me wanting a nicer pen, what's the opinions on Waterman pens, the Expert II or the Carene to be exact?

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I'm a total newb when it comes to pens, but I tried out the Carene a few weeks ago and loved it. That's the one I want. It wrote smoothly and I love that inlaid nib look. I think Joon had it priced at about $190.

Jordan

+1 on the Lamy's and the Noodlers.

The Safari line are top notch with the refillable revision and the amazing F & EF nibs. I have two on the go at all times, with one still in the box for back up just in case.

The Noodlers I use are all ordered from Pendemonium:
~ Legal Lapis
~ Eternal Brown
The top two are exclusive to Pend., and are part of the permanent line that bonds to paper and not your hands. I highly recommend them.

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Originally Posted by Merit

+1 on the Lamy's and the Noodlers.

The Safari line are top notch with the refillable revision and the amazing F & EF nibs. I have two on the go at all times, with one still in the box for back up just in case.

The Noodlers I use are all ordered from Pendemonium:
~ Legal Lapis
~ Eternal Brown
The top two are exclusive to Pend., and are part of the permanent line that bonds to paper and not your hands. I highly recommend them.

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+1 on Pendemonium, they are good folks and will take great care of you.

I am wanting to try "heart of darkness" black from noodlers..
Have cross ink right now, seems decent.

I got the fine tip on my Logo... love it as well.
Lamy writes SOO much better than my Waterman does, why??

I like the Safari as well, especially the AL star, might get one eventually, but I think i'll do something with a little more "flash" for my next pen..

Anyone have experience with
Retro 51 Tornado Fountain Pen - Blue
Is that a decent quality? Was looking at it at the airport yesterday, looks decent though not quite as good as the Lamy quality wise, but seems ok.

Bjorn - I have the Waterman Expert II - decent pen, nice weight and balance; I got the pen as a graduation gift from my parents when I finished my undergraduate degree, had no idea about pens, and suffered for the next 7 years with a pen that skipped (ink flow disappeared mid-letter...constantly!). I recently sent the pen back to Waterman, had it repaired (free...lifetime guarantee) and now it works like a dream.

I'm ashamed to say that I like my disposable Pilot V-Pen almost as much though in terms of writing quality.

I'll have to try a vintage Parker or the Lamy soon though...I think one will definitely not be enough very soon!

Mark

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Originally Posted by bbshriver

I am wanting to try "heart of darkness" black from noodlers..
Have cross ink right now, seems decent.

.

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That's the ink I got, if only I had found it sooner (thanks jockeys for posting about Noodlers), it's a really nice ink and with it's fast drying I don't have to worry about the ink smearing before its dry.

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Originally Posted by Milton Man

Bjorn - I have the Waterman Expert II - decent pen, nice weight and balance; I got the pen as a graduation gift from my parents when I finished my undergraduate degree, had no idea about pens, and suffered for the next 7 years with a pen that skipped (ink flow disappeared mid-letter...constantly!). I recently sent the pen back to Waterman, had it repaired (free...lifetime guarantee) and now it works like a dream.

I'm ashamed to say that I like my disposable Pilot V-Pen almost as much though in terms of writing quality.

I'll have to try a vintage Parker or the Lamy soon though...I think one will definitely not be enough very soon!

Mark

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I've been reading a lot on foutainpennetwork lately, and the more I read the more confused I get:D

I have a feeling I'll end up with the Expert II and let the Carene be a dream, it's strange how different AD's suddenly kick in.

I think they are absolutely beautiful writing instruments. I would love to use them. But, and there's always a but, I am left handed so I write upside down and backwards. I end up pushing the pen across the paper, not pulling it softly across. :mad:

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Originally Posted by dward

I think they are absolutely beautiful writing instruments. I would love to use them. But, and there's always a but, I am left handed so I write upside down and backwards. I end up pushing the pen across the paper, not pulling it softly across. :mad:

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I'm a lefty too. I'm in the process of "retraining" how I write. I'm going from an over-the-line or hook method to turning the page and writing from under the line. I think it's doable and I can write just fine with the fountain pen. You can buy a pretty inexpensive fountain pen and give it a try!

Jordan

While we're talking pens, are there any rollerball pens that take can use Noodler's ink? Whether it's a screw type resevoir like Mont Blanc or a plunger like my Parker Latitude? Thanks!

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Originally Posted by Mike Blue

One brand that has been satisfactory is "Private Reserve." It doesn't clog pens that don't do so well with other inks and dries fairly quickly. Good solid colors too.

I like all the choices listed so far. My favorite has been a Namiki Falcon. Given your price criteria, the Lamy is the best value for the money.

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Private reserve is a good ink, indeed.

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Originally Posted by Smiles

While we're talking pens, are there any rollerball pens that take can use Noodler's ink? Whether it's a screw type resevoir like Mont Blanc or a plunger like my Parker Latitude? Thanks!

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it is possible to refill Pilot Precise and V series pens with liquid ink, but is a royal pain to do so.

Jockey - how on earth do you refil a Pilot V-Pen?

Mark

same way you refill an inkjet printer cartridge:

drill+syringe+glue to hold it shut once you're done.

I started with a retro 51. Thought it was great untill I bought a Parker 21 at the flea market for $0.50. The parker was smoother. I then bought a Pilot Vanishing Point from Richard Binder. I now want to throw rocks at the Retro 51. The vanishing point is smooth and writes with no effort or pressure.
I havent found a converter for the retro either. If you want to try different inks that don't come in cartridge you have to inject them into used cartridges. If you have an intrest in fountain pens I would recomend Looking at www.richardspens.com He tunes each pen before shipping and will customize the nib for a fee. He also has a welth of info about pens and inks on his sight.

Don

I'm in law enforcement and take a lot of notes, is there anyone else here that is in a similar position that uses a fountain pen. I need to make sure it does bleed through my note book (standard tri-form note book). I always print to ensure that my notes are legible for court, is there a type of nib that's better for printing than cursive?

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Originally Posted by Hutch

I'm in law enforcement and take a lot of notes, is there anyone else here that is in a similar position that uses a fountain pen. I need to make sure it does bleed through my note book (standard tri-form note book). I always print to ensure that my notes are legible for court, is there a type of nib that's better for printing than cursive?

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The Curse of FP's is the tricopy paper... At work I use a steel nib pen (AG Spalding) to sign my oder forms and it does well enough for 2ply. I havent tried 3ply yet, but suggest a medium tipped steel nib for strength and rigidity.

Allot has happened Pen-wise for me :p I now have a Pilot VP, Pilot Custom 74 demo, and an AG Spalding. All 3 are japanese made pens with meduim or fine nibs. My ink of choice is still Noodlers...

INKS...

NOODLER's
Walnut
Hunter Green
Fox Red
Polar Blue
Sequoia
Whiteness of Whale
Dragon Napalm

MONT BLANC
Sepia

I've become more on an ink nut than pen-nut though :p

Hi

I use a Parker 51,it was my fathers and must be at least 35 years old. It is a great pen and when I slip it out of the leather Parker case,combined with a leather binder,it makes a real impression. I recently went and bought the most expensive paper and envelopes I could find. I use it for special occassions or when writing a letter that I want opened and actioned.
Believe me, quality paper and envelopes find their way to the people who make decisions, it also says a lot about the person who sent it in the first place.

Dont take my word for it, try it yourself.

Ps Pop over to Harrods in London and have a word with them.

regards.

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Originally Posted by DwarvenChef

Allot has happened Pen-wise for me :p I now have a Pilot VP, Pilot Custom 74 demo, and an AG Spalding. All 3 are japanese made pens with meduim or fine nibs. My ink of choice is still Noodlers...

INKS...

NOODLER's
Walnut
Hunter Green
Fox Red
Polar Blue
Sequoia
Whiteness of Whale
Dragon Napalm

MONT BLANC
Sepia

I've become more on an ink nut than pen-nut though :p

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how's the dragon napalm in person? i saw it on the website and was tempted...

It is an interesting shade. Not as dark as I was expecting but still worth getting. Depending on your pen/nib the color really is different. I used a glass dip pen to play with it before I bought it, great color play and shading. We put it in a preppy pen and while it was still a good color it was less shading in the script. So dryer writers my have a differnt outcome than wet writers.

I tryed it next to Habanero, the napalm was a much lighter shade, while habanero is kind of a burnt orange.